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by Peggy Ployhar Do you have a student who struggles with a core subject—perhaps math, reading, or spelling? Many parents find themselves in the same situation. When progress stalls, the instinctive reaction is often to double down on that subject to “catch up.” But this approach can actually work against your child’s success. Let me share a scenario I’ve discussed with countless parents over the past 15 years, especially those frustrated by a lack of progress despite intensifying focus on a particular subject. I usually begin by saying, “What I’m about to tell you may seem counterintuitive at first, so let’s start with a little thought experiment.” A Parallel to Consider Imagine the chore or activity you dislike most. (For many parents, this is something like cooking, laundry, cleaning, or car maintenance—necessary but unappealing tasks.) For me, it’s cleaning my house. I love to cook, but cleaning? Not so much. Now, picture having everything else cleared from your schedule so you have all day to tackle that one disliked chore. Personally, if I knew my entire Saturday was dedicated to cleaning, I’d probably avoid it as long as possible! Wouldn’t you feel the same? This is exactly how your child feels when other subjects and activities are removed to focus solely on their “struggle” areas. When their day is filled with only the subjects they find difficult, motivation wanes quickly. The Solution: Adding More Unconventional Learning Instead of focusing on fewer subjects, consider adding more unconventional learning into your child’s routine. We’re all familiar with the concept of incentives—rewards like toys, food, or stickers help children learn perseverance through positive reinforcement. These external motivators are effective, but over time, it’s even better if children can develop intrinsic motivation, discovering the rewards of learning itself and recognizing their unique strengths. This is where incorporating unconventional learning can help shift your student’s perspective, allowing them to find enjoyment in learning and see themselves as capable and gifted. Let me share how this approach played out in our homeschool journey with my oldest son. An Example: Building Confidence Through Structural Engineering At 11 years old, my son still struggled with reading. We worked daily on reading skills, using various curriculums to help him move forward. But I knew that overemphasizing reading could crush his confidence and drain his interest in learning. My son loved to build, so I decided to make that a formal part of his learning. I created a weekly subject in his planner called “Structural Engineering” and found a K'NEX Education set on constructing real bridges. Each week, we studied bridge designs and built them together. This approach made a noticeable difference. My son’s self-esteem soared as he saw what I’d known all along: he had a talent for engineering. This year, 12 years later, that same young man graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering—a path that aligned perfectly with the skills he started developing back then. Shifting Focus from "Catching Up" to "Building Up" As you plan your homeschooling year, avoid the trap of over-focusing on “catching up.” Instead, build your student up by adding more varied and enriching learning opportunities. Show them that despite any learning difficulties, they are indeed gifted learners.

by Cheryl Swope, M.Ed. One ought, every day at least, to hear a little song, read a good poem, see a fine picture, and, if it were possible, to speak a few reasonable words." – Goethe Whether new to homeschooling, seasoned with decades of experience, or somewhere in between, we all share a common goal: ensuring that our children’s education doesn’t feel solely remedial. We commit to building up their reading, spelling, writing, and math skills through steady practice. However, it’s essential that we balance this foundation with an education that nourishes the soul and engages their full humanity. With this in mind, here are seven ways to elevate the education of a child with special needs: 1. Music Research highlights music’s positive effects on memory, auditory processing, phonological awareness, and reading. Beyond cognitive benefits, music offers peace amid challenges. Victor Hugo wrote, “Music expresses that which cannot be put into words.” Explore this free playlist to introduce weekly pieces, encouraging your child to dance, twirl, or listen closely. Talk about the instruments, tempo, rhythm, and emotions conveyed. If possible, introduce them to an instrument or singing, providing a gift that endures. 2. Art Art invites children to connect with beauty and creativity. For nonverbal children, no words are needed to admire or interact with art. Display art posters in their room or engage in crafts if they are young. Older children may experiment with creating their own art. At home, we set “no-talking time” or played classical music to support silent focus, starting with only 5–10 minutes at a time. 3. Read-Alouds Reading aloud offers children shared experiences, stories to connect with, and opportunities to bond. Fiction and nonfiction read-alouds boost receptive and expressive language, expand knowledge, and gradually improve attention. This practice gives our children narratives to explore that go beyond their own challenges. 4. Nature Nature invites children to slow down and connect with the world. For my daughter, nature’s wonders—like a luna moth or caterpillar—prompted her to pause and observe. We began a nature journal, where I recorded her observations until she could write independently. Younger children can enjoy simple nature walks and picture books, while older ones can study birds, plants, or mammals, fostering a sense of place. 5. Poetry Poetry elevates language and, even in simple forms, supports phonological awareness and rhyming skills. For children, collections like A Child’s Garden of Verses or A Child’s Garden of Song set to music enhance memory and language play. Older children can explore more advanced poems that stimulate imagination and may even inspire their own writing. 6. Aesop’s Fables Aesop’s fables have engaged learners for centuries with lessons in honesty, integrity, and moral awareness. These timeless tales, often conveyed through animals, offer unique social insights, especially for children with autism. Listening to Aesop’s Fables on CD or using a copybook to reflect on these stories deepens the impact over repeated readings. 7. Christian Studies To truly elevate our children’s education, we can include timeless truths that encourage resilience and hope. Practicing gratitude and reflecting on Scripture can help older children overcome discouragement. For instance, focusing on verses like, “I have loved you with an everlasting love…” (Jeremiah 31:3) can remind them of their inherent worth. Summary At home, both of our children continue to find joy and calm in the practices that have enriched their learning. My daughter plays her piano pieces, including Hickory Dickory Dock and a modified Minuet, while her twin brother composes his own music. Both read at the lunch table, walk outdoors, and take pleasure in helping others. These elements have uplifted not only their days but also mine. Although our twins are on the autism spectrum with learning disabilities and mental health challenges, they now express gratitude for these enriching experiences. Let’s inspire our children to find joy in life’s simple, beautiful things, as Tolstoy described: “Rest, nature, books, music, love for one’s neighbor—such is my idea of happiness.” About the Author Cheryl Swope, M.Ed., is the author of Simply Classical: A Beautiful Education for Any Child and creator of the Simply Classical Curriculum from Memoria Press. She and her husband adopted boy-girl twins with special needs over twenty years ago, homeschooling them through high school graduation. The family now resides together in a wooded lake community in Missouri.

By Jennifer Cullimore We all have different circumstances: some of us live in two-parent homes, some (like myself) are single, some work outside the home, and others work from home. One thing many of us homeschooling parents share, especially those of us with children who have special needs, is a lack of time for ourselves. Often, we don’t even realize how empty our “cups” are until they’re bone dry. People have told me, “You just need to get a babysitter and go out.” But it’s not always that simple. Babysitters cost money, which I don’t always have, and finding someone who can handle my kids’ unique needs isn’t easy. Extra cash for a spontaneous night out or a mani-pedi isn’t usually in the budget. But even with these challenges, I still need ways to refill my cup and take care of myself. If you can relate, here are a few simple strategies that have helped me—I hope they can help you too! 1. Establish a Bedtime Routine Even though our bedtime routine sometimes gets off track, it’s crucial for my well-being. My girls know that after bedtime, it’s mommy time. Those couple of hours in the evening allow me to recharge and take care of my own needs. Yes, I sometimes stay up too late, but that time to myself helps energize me to face the next day. 2. Prioritize Sleep While I do occasionally stay up late, I also make sure to get the sleep my body needs. One of the blessings of homeschooling is that we aren’t tied to a strict schedule. If we’ve had a rough night—like when one of my kids has ear pain and is up for hours—we can adjust and start our school day later. This flexibility allows us all to get the rest we need, which makes our days run more smoothly. 3. Podcasts, YouTube, and Sermons Because of some of my kids’ challenges, we aren’t currently involved in a local church, but I still need to fill my spiritual cup. Podcasts, YouTube, and online sermons have been a lifeline for me. I love listening to Francis Chan, the Bible Project, and other homeschooling moms who share encouraging and godly wisdom. I do this at night after the kids are in bed or while I’m doing household chores. My girls also enjoy their favorite worship songs and hymns, so we incorporate those into our day as well. Another great resource is Empowering Homeschool Conversations, our weekly live broadcast. You can watch it live on Tuesday afternoons from 12:30 to 1:30 pm Central, or catch it later on YouTube or as a podcast. 4. Time with the Lord Personal devotions are essential for filling my cup, and while I don’t always stick to my routine, I try to jump back in whenever I fall out of the habit. Online groups, like the “Write His Word” Facebook group, have been great accountability tools for me, encouraging me to journal and reflect on Scripture. Writing God’s Word helps me remember it, and it strengthens my connection with Him. 5. Art and Handicrafts I may not have been born with natural artistic talent, but I love creating things. One of my favorite ways to unwind is through “adult coloring books.” There’s something about coloring that relaxes me and sparks my creativity. In the evenings, you’ll often find me coloring while listening to a podcast or sermon. I also enjoy crocheting, and lately, I’ve even started experimenting with painting and drawing. While my creations won’t be in any art gallery soon, they bring me joy—and that’s what matters. No matter what your situation looks like, it’s important to remember that finding small moments to fill your cup will help you take care of yourself so you can continue pouring into your family. Whether it’s establishing routines, allowing yourself to rest, or finding creative outlets, every little step counts in maintaining your well-being as a homeschooling parent.

By Dawn Spence "It's ready, set, go, it's another wild day When the stress is on the rise, in my heart I feel you say Just breathe, just breathe Come and rest at my feet And be, just be Chaos calls but all you really need Is to just breathe." —Jonny Diaz These lyrics from Jonny Diaz speak straight to my heart, and I often find myself needing to take a deep breath, especially on those days when life feels overwhelming. Breathe Reminder: You Are Accomplishing More Than You Think As a homeschooling mom, I sometimes get caught up in everything I think I should be doing—as both a mom and a teacher. When those thoughts of inadequacy creep in, it’s easy to lose sight of all the amazing things I am doing. We juggle multiple roles, and that can lead to self-doubt, but it’s important to pause, breathe, and reflect on how much we are accomplishing every single day. The progress may feel slow or even invisible, but it is happening. Every lesson, every conversation, every moment of connection is contributing to your children’s growth and learning. Breathe Reminder: You Are Enough In those moments of stress, I remind myself to “just breathe.” There are countless things I can teach my children, but one of the most important lessons is the value of peace. I won’t always be in control of every situation, and that’s okay. I don’t need to be perfect, and neither do you. You are enough, just as you are. Teaching our children to embrace their own imperfections, to learn from their mistakes, and to recognize that they, too, are enough, is one of the greatest life lessons we can offer. Mistakes aren’t failures; they’re stepping stones to growth. Let them see that, in you. Breathe Reminder: Perspective Provides Pathways When my kids are upset, or heading toward a meltdown, I often tell them, “Blow out your candles.” It’s a simple way to remind them (and sometimes myself) to stop and breathe deeply. Breathing brings clarity, and it can help shift our perspective when we feel overwhelmed. I’ve even had moments where my kids remind me to blow out my candles! Those moments of intentional breathing allow us to step back, and suddenly the situations that felt impossible become manageable. We regain perspective and realize that not everything is as dire as it seems in the heat of the moment. Breathe Reminder: God Equips You for This Journey As you move through today’s challenges, remember to breathe and trust that you are enough—and that God is equipping you for this journey. You don’t need to have all the answers or the perfect plan. He has called you to this work and is with you every step of the way. When you find yourself in the chaos, stressed and uncertain, take a moment to just breathe. Rest in the knowledge that you are exactly where you need to be, and you are doing exactly what you need to do. Your breath can anchor you, reminding you that you are enough for your family, and that with God’s guidance, you can meet whatever challenges come your way. So today, when chaos calls, take a moment to breathe—and trust the journey.

Homeschooling through high school can be a daunting journey, but with the right resources, you can confidently guide your teen through these critical years. Betsy Sproger, a retired Occupational Therapist, homeschool veteran, and author, has generously allowed our site to share a collection her invaluable resources to help families navigate the high school years. Betsy homeschooled her daughter from kindergarten through high school, and her expertise and practical advice have supported countless homeschooling families. These resources provide families with essential tools to homeschool their struggling learners through high school successfully. 1. How to Homeschool High School – 15-Page PDF Are you thinking about homeschooling your teen or already in the midst of it? This comprehensive guide from BJ's Homeschool walks you through four crucial steps to plan a successful high school experience at home. Covering everything from graduation requirements and choosing electives to assigning high school credits, this resource ensures you have all the information needed to help your teen thrive. For those who want a more detailed breakdown, you can download the PDF here, which also includes additional resources via email. This guide complements Betsy's video on How to Homeschool High School, offering a deeper dive into essential topics like core studies, electives, and curriculum choices. Download the free resource: How to Homeschool High School 2. Step-by-Step Guide to Homeschool Transcripts Creating a homeschool transcript can feel overwhelming, but Betsy’s Step-by-Step Guide to Homeschool Transcripts simplifies the process. This 4-page PDF is an easy-to-follow resource that helps you craft transcripts in a way that colleges prefer to see, ensuring your teen’s accomplishments are clearly and accurately represented. Get started with your homeschool transcripts: Step-by-Step Guide to Homeschool Transcripts 3. Ebook: Homeschooling High School with College in Mind, 2nd Edition For parents who want a more comprehensive resource, Betsy’s ebook Homeschooling High School with College in Mind is a must-read. Available for free to read on Amazon Prime, this guide covers everything you need to know about homeschooling through high school, whether your teen is college-bound or not. It offers practical tips for creating transcripts, calculating GPA, writing course descriptions, and navigating the college admissions process, all while allowing you to homeschool in a way that suits your family’s unique needs. You can access the ebook on Amazon: Homeschooling High School with College in Mind For more help on homeschooling high school to college for your struggling learner, visit Betsy's website. 4. Video: How to Homeschool High School Sometimes, seeing and hearing from someone with experience makes all the difference. In this informative video, Betsy shares her personal journey of homeschooling her daughter through high school. The video is packed with practical advice on transcripts, high school credits, curriculum choices, and electives. Betsy’s friendly, approachable style will encourage you to take on homeschooling high school with confidence. Watch the video and follow along with the provided outline: Watch the Video 5. Video Workshop Outline: How to Homeschool High School To accompany her video, Betsy has created an outline that serves as a helpful guide while you watch. This outline covers all the major points in the video, helping you take notes and refer back to key information as you plan your homeschool high school program. Download the outline and access the additional resources below. Whether you're just starting your high school homeschooling journey or you’re deep in the process, these evergreen resources from Betsy Sproger provide practical, step-by-step guidance that will ease your path. Betsy’s personal experience, combined with her professional expertise, makes these resources an invaluable addition to your homeschool toolkit. Explore all of these free downloads today, and visit BJ’s Homeschool for more helpful tips and encouragement on homeschooling a struggling learner through high school.

Handwriting is a crucial part of learning, but for many children, especially those with unique learning needs, writing can feel like a frustrating hurdle. If you’ve noticed that your child struggles with forming letters, grasping a pencil, or writing comfortably for extended periods, you're not alone. Betsy Sproger, a retired Occupational Therapist (OT), homeschool veteran, and blogger, has developed three helpful resources designed to support parents teaching children who struggle with handwriting. These free downloads will provide practical activities and tips to help your child build the necessary fine motor skills for better handwriting. Betsy’s expertise as both an OT and homeschooling parent gives her unique insight into addressing challenges with creative and effective solutions. 1. Small Muscle Games for Handwriting Fine motor skills are essential for writing, but many children struggle with the small muscle movements needed to control a pencil. This download includes a variety of engaging games that target those muscles, making handwriting practice both fun and functional. From finger isolation exercises to creative play with small objects, these activities will build your child's hand strength and coordination, setting the foundation for smoother handwriting. 2. Handwriting Grasp Activities The way your child holds a pencil can significantly impact their writing ability. A poor grasp may cause fatigue, frustration, and slow progress. Betsy’s Handwriting Grasp Activities are designed to improve your child’s pencil grip by targeting the muscles in the hands, fingers, and wrists. These exercises are simple, using everyday objects you likely have around the house. They can be easily incorporated into your homeschool day, helping your child develop the correct grip for more confident and comfortable writing. 3. Parent’s Guide for Helping Struggling Writers As parents, it’s tough to watch our children struggle with something as foundational as writing. But with the right approach, you can support their growth without turning writing into a daily battle. Betsy’s Parent’s Guide provides helpful strategies for identifying why your child may be struggling, and offers tips to motivate them without adding pressure. You'll also find suggestions for making writing more accessible for children with different learning needs and abilities, empowering you to guide them at their own pace. About the Author Betsy Sproger, the author of these resources, is first and foremost a homeschool mom to her now-adult daughter. When her daughter began struggling with traditional learning environments, Betsy and her husband decided to homeschool her from kindergarten through high school. This decision allowed them to tailor their daughter’s learning to her individual needs and reinforce their family values in everyday teaching. Betsy’s experience as a retired OT helped her daughter thrive, particularly when it came to developing handwriting skills. Today, she continues to support homeschooling families through her blog, BJ's Homeschool, where she shares her wisdom on teaching children with unique learning needs. Download Your Free Handwriting Resources Ready to help your child improve their writing skills? Click the links below to access each of Betsy’s free resources. Whether you're just beginning your homeschooling journey or are looking for fresh ideas to support your child's handwriting development, these resources from Betsy Sproger will give you the tools to set your child up for success. Be sure to check out Betsy’s blog for more valuable tips and guidance on homeschooling children with unique learning needs.

What can we learn about bravery and trust from a guide dog? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, co-host Stephanie Buckwalter sits down with Michael Hingson, New York Times bestselling author of Thunder Dog, to explore the incredible story of his survival on 9/11 and the life-changing lessons guide dogs can teach us. Michael and his guide dog Roselle escaped from the 78th floor of Tower One during the attacks on the World Trade Center, and his story has since inspired millions. As an internationally sought-after speaker, Michael has addressed audiences at ExxonMobil, FedEx, the American Red Cross, and many other prominent organizations, sharing insights on leadership, resilience, and overcoming adversity. Beyond his work as an author and speaker, Michael serves as Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe, a company that promotes digital accessibility for people with disabilities, and is the National Federation of the Blind’s ambassador for its National Braille Literacy Campaign. Tune in to hear how the unique bond between a man and his guide dog helped them navigate one of the darkest moments in history and what it can teach us about facing challenges with courage and trust. To join in the after-show conversation, join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations Q&A group here: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/groups/tuesday-empowering-conversations  *You must have a Navigator Membership or higher on Homeschool Heroes to be part of this group. To get a membership or upgrade your membership, visit: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/membership To connect with Michael and his resources, visit: https://michaelhingson.com/  Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/  To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/  To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit:  https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/  Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

By Sherry Martin "He said, 'You become. It takes a long time. That’s why it doesn’t happen to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don’t matter at all, because once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.'" No, this isn’t a description of a homeschool mom on a warm May afternoon—but it could be. This is a foundational truth about love, being loved, and becoming Real. Many homeschool moms know the feeling of being worn down by love. There were many afternoons I called myself "The Velveteen Rabbit." This is one of the powerful truths captured in Margery Williams' The Velveteen Rabbit. Authors of old had a way of distilling profound truths through endearing characters and rich symbolism. Their stories teach children that while life can be difficult, there is always hope. Here are three foundational truths children can learn from timeless tales: 1. Empathy The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen addresses our need to belong and the universal pain we feel when we’re not accepted. It reminds us not to let others define us. While it’s not easy, coming out of painful experiences teaches us how to treat those who are different. Use this story as a springboard to discuss empathy with your children. 2. Right from Wrong The simple Celtic tale The Three Little Pigs, written by Joseph Jacobs, illustrates the importance of wise investment of time and resources. The first two pigs, driven by greed and short-sightedness, built weak houses. The third pig, however, built his house from strong, costly bricks. His diligence saved them all, and his brothers learned the value of foresight and good judgment. These tales offer a wealth of lessons on the consequences of choices—rich material for teaching children the outcomes of right and wrong decisions. 3. Hope Hope is the most vital ingredient in these stories. Vision, the power to anticipate what may come, breathes life into these tales. As Proverbs 29:18 says, "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Many fables offer the hope of better times or dreams fulfilled. A Favorite Tale One of my personal favorites is Beauty and the Beast, adapted from the 18th-century fairy tale by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont. Belle, full of hope, longs for a life filled with love, literature, and adventure, and she is willing to wait for what she desires. In contrast, the Beast, having lost hope, is redeemed through trust, acceptance, and selfless love. Their story reminds us that hope can be renewed, and even the darkest situations can lead to redemption. A Brighter Future Many children today have their hopes and dreams dashed by the harsh realities of our modern world. Films, books, and television often tell dark, cynical stories that blur the lines between heroes and villains. Children’s stories should not only entertain but teach valuable character lessons, distinguish right from wrong, and, most importantly, offer hope. As C.S. Lewis said, “Since it is so likely that children will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage. Otherwise, you are making their destiny not brighter but darker.”

By Dawn Spence Whether your child has Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, or other challenges that create learning delays, a light table can be a useful tool to inspire your learner. When I started teaching my special needs daughter, I noticed how her sensory needs overshadowed her drive to learn. I began researching ways to meet those sensory needs while also providing effective learning instruction. Once I explored light tables, I knew I had found the perfect learning tool. Light tables naturally attract children and can make basic tasks more engaging and fun. Here are 4 ways a light table can assist in teaching a child with sensory needs: 1. Light tables can engage and bring new dimensions to repetitive tasks Children who find traditional methods frustrating may respond positively when routine tasks like sorting or counting are done on a light table. The bright, glowing surface can hold their attention longer and makes even familiar tasks feel novel and exciting. Additional Recommendation: Try using colored transparent counters for sorting and counting. The vibrant colors against the lit surface make the activity visually stimulating, keeping your child engaged longer. Introduce pattern blocks or tangrams on the light table to explore symmetry, shapes, and color combinations. 2. Light tables bring tracing and writing to life on a reusable platform By overlaying workbook pages with a transparency sheet, a light table transforms mundane handwriting or tracing practice into something more dynamic. The illuminated background encourages focus and can make the act of writing more enjoyable. Additional Recommendation: Use dry-erase markers on transparency sheets, allowing your child to practice writing repeatedly without wasting paper. Simply wipe the sheet clean after each use! Explore tracing letters, shapes, or even animals printed on transparent paper. You can rotate through new images to keep your child excited about learning. 3. Light tables transform tasks into exploratory hands-on activities Whether your child is sorting, adding, or spelling, the light table can make these tasks more interactive. Hands-on learning becomes an exploration of new textures and colors as your child interacts with different objects on the lit surface. Additional Recommendation: Use sensory materials like sand, salt, or rice on a clear tray over the light table to create tactile experiences. Children can draw shapes or letters in the sand with their fingers or small tools. Incorporate magnetic letters or numbers. Placing these on the light table adds an extra visual dimension to spelling words or solving math problems. 4. Light tables make learning fun and entertaining Everyone enjoys learning more when it’s entertaining. Light tables create an inviting learning environment where even tasks that might normally seem like work feel playful and enjoyable. Additional Recommendation: Bring in seasonal or themed manipulatives that reflect your child’s interests, like animal figurines, cars, or nature objects like leaves. This personalization helps tie your child’s passions into learning activities. Try color-mixing activities by using colored film or transparent building blocks to teach the concept of blending colors. Dawn's Recommendations for Light Table Materials: Guidecraft LED Light Table Workbooks - Dollar Tree Store (Many to choose from, and they are only $1) Transparency Film Sheets Shape & Theme Manipulatives - Dollar Tree Store (Look at specific seasons. Sometimes called table scatters. They light up beautifully.) Letter Manipulatives – Great for practicing spelling and letter recognition. Colored Acetate Sheets – For color mixing and light-filtering experiments. Pattern Blocks & Transparent Counters – For math activities and sorting games. Magnetic Letters & Numbers – Add a hands-on element for spelling and math tasks. Sensory Trays – For sand, salt, or other tactile learning tools. By incorporating these activities and materials, parents can enhance their child’s learning experiences, especially for those who struggle with traditional methods. A light table provides the visual, sensory, and interactive stimulation that can make learning fun and effective.

In this enlightening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, Peggy Ployhar sits down with Kristy Anderson, an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience. Together, they dive deep into effective speech strategies that can help homeschool parents support their children in building stronger communication skills, improving social interaction, and fostering self-regulation. Our guest this week is Kristy Anderson, an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and the elderly. Kristy has worked with individuals from ages 2 to 21, as well as adults recovering from strokes and illnesses, helping them overcome communication and feeding/swallowing challenges. She’s passionate about making a difference in the lives of her clients, working closely with families to maximize their impact. Kristy also provides professional development for both parents and professionals, helping them carry over therapy skills throughout the day. Her areas of expertise include articulation, language delays, AAC devices, fluency, social thinking, cognitive communication in the elderly, and more. She also offers support for parents in IEP meetings and therapy collaborations, both online and in person. Kristy holds a Master’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and has spent 21 years as a school-based SLP, 15 years in private therapy, and 10 years working with seniors in skilled nursing facilities. To join in the after-show conversation, join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations Q&A group here:https://www.spedhomeschool.com/groups/tuesday-empowering-conversations *You must have a Navigator Membership or higher on Homeschool Heroes to be part of this group. To get a membership or upgrade your membership, visit: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/membership To connect with Kristy and her resources, visit: https://beyondspeechtx.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families! https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

By Kimberly Vogel As an educator and therapist, I meticulously plan my lessons. I create alternate ideas and know exactly what needs to get done for my kids, students, and therapy sessions. These plans are essential because parents invest time and money into the services I provide. However, I’ve learned that even with the most detailed plans, opportunities to truly reach the hearts of the people I serve can be easily missed if I place the plan above the person. One day, due to a scheduling issue, I found myself pressed for time with a student. I felt the pressure to stick to the plan and cover everything in record time. The first item on the list was reading a section from the student's "for fun" book. In the story, the main character had to fill out a form asking what word best described her. She also had to guess what word others in her life would give her. After reading the passage, we decided to do the same exercise for the student. Most of her answers were "I don't know" or "no clue," but one word stood out—beautiful. When I asked her to describe herself, however, the words she used were all negative. This was a pivotal moment. I paused the lesson plan and seized the opportunity to encourage her. I told her that I didn’t see her in the same negative way she saw herself and that the words we choose to describe ourselves can shape our thoughts and self-perception. I shared the words I would use to describe her, both now and a year ago, and then asked her what word she thought God would use for her. I reminded her that God doesn’t see her as "stupid," "weird," or "silly." Instead, He loves her so deeply that He sent His son to die for her. That’s something truly special. This moment of encouragement took less than 15 minutes, but it made a lasting impact. I pray that the positive words she heard will stick with her and replace the negative ones that had weighed her down. Ensuring Intentional Teaching Opportunities While lesson plans are important, I’ve discovered several ways to make sure I don’t miss those unexpected, yet deeply impactful teaching opportunities: Prepare Your Heart Daily As part of my morning quiet time, I now pray specifically for intentional opportunities to show up in my day. I also journal about the opportunities from the previous day. Knowing that I’ll be reflecting on them motivates me to be more aware and intentional in each interaction. “Don’t those who plan evil go astray? But those who plan good find loyalty and faithfulness.” — Proverbs 14:22 Choose People Over Plans Recently, I spoke with a man from another country who mentioned how busy our culture is. In his home country, a lunch with a friend can last all afternoon and extend into the evening, with no rush. They prioritize relationships over schedules. It reminded me that many of the things on our to-do lists can wait. Choosing to invest time in people is never wasted; it’s a valuable investment in building strong connections. Pray for the Right Opportunities Not every conversation will be a breakthrough moment, and not every day will bring an obvious opportunity to encourage someone. But each day brings the inward opportunity to pray for those we encounter. By praying and being attuned to the Spirit’s prompting, we can learn to discern when to offer encouragement, prayer, or deeper conversation. This practice takes time and intention, but with persistence, it becomes a natural part of our daily rhythm. Teaching life lessons is important, but teaching to the heart in the moment can leave a lasting impression. Slowing down, choosing people over plans, and allowing the Spirit to guide us in these opportunities leads to deeper, more meaningful interactions that transcend the lesson plan.

Unlock new possibilities in your homeschool journey with our comprehensive downloadable PDF, featuring 50+ websites that provide free enrichment curriculum resources designed to support students who struggle with learning. Whether your child faces challenges with grasping foundational concepts or needs additional opportunities for growth, this guide is packed with diverse content to help you create engaging, tailored lessons that cater to their unique needs. What You’ll Find in This Download: This resource is carefully curated to offer a variety of enrichment activities across multiple subject areas, from math and reading to science, history, arts, and more. Each of the 50+ websites included in this guide offers high-quality, free content that is easy to access and implement into your existing homeschool curriculum. With links to interactive lessons, videos, games, and hands-on projects, these resources can help you create a dynamic learning environment where your child can thrive. How to Use These Resources for Unique Learners: Teaching students who struggle with learning requires creativity and flexibility. The resources in this PDF are not just designed for traditional learners—they are perfect for helping unique learners explore new ways of understanding concepts. Here’s how you can get the most out of them: Break Down Complex Concepts: Many students struggle to grasp basic concepts when taught in a single, standard method. The interactive resources in this download offers multiple ways to explain key ideas, allowing you to break down lessons into smaller, more manageable steps that align with your child’s learning style. Create a Multi-Sensory Learning Environment: Many of the websites listed offer hands-on projects, videos, and interactive exercises. These multi-sensory approaches can help children engage with the material in a way that makes it easier for them to retain and apply what they’ve learned. Expand Beyond Core Subjects: Struggling learners often need more than just a focus on core subjects like math and reading. This download includes resources for enriching your homeschool with art, music, science experiments, and more, helping to foster a well-rounded education that engages your child’s interests and strengths. Encourage Independence: Many of the resources in this guide are self-paced and interactive, encouraging children to take ownership of their learning. This can be especially helpful for students who struggle with attention or who need to build confidence in their abilities. Supplement Your Current Curriculum: Whether you are using a structured curriculum or a more relaxed homeschooling approach, these enrichment websites can serve as the perfect supplement. They offer creative ways to reinforce what your child is already learning while keeping them engaged and motivated. Perfect for a Wide Range of Learning Needs: This resource is ideal for parents of children with diverse learning needs, including those with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, or other challenges. The variety of approaches represented ensures that there is something for everyone, from visual and auditory learners to those who need tactile or kinesthetic activities to fully grasp concepts. Supporting a Lifelong Love of Learning: By integrating these enrichment resources into your homeschool, you can go beyond traditional teaching methods and offer your child a more personalized, engaging education. With the flexibility to explore a wide range of subjects and activities, you’ll be fostering a lifelong love of learning in your child, giving them the tools they need to succeed, no matter their challenges. Download your free copy of this comprehensive resource today and start enhancing your homeschool with these powerful tools designed to help your child not only catch up but excel in their education! Looking for more curriculum help? Check out these articles on how to meet your child's unique needs at home: Unlocking Your Child's Potential: Beyond Traditional Curriculum Solutions (spedhomeschool.com) Adapting Math Curriculum for Special Needs Learners (spedhomeschool.com) Where to Turn When Curriculum Isn't Helping (spedhomeschool.com) Transforming Learning: The Power of Healing Teaching (spedhomeschool.com) Supplements 101 (spedhomeschool.com) Understanding the Four Learning Gates: Making Learning Easier for Struggling Learners (spedhomeschool.com) Striking the Right Homeschooling Balance: When to Modify and When to Remove (spedhomeschool.com)